Rockfall at Impala mine kills two

Two miners have died at Impala Platinum’s Rustenburg mine after a rock fell on their heads while drilling in shaft 12, said the mining company on Tuesday morning.

The two men, aged 31 and 34, died at the scene, said Impala Platinum spokesperson, Johan Theron.

Theron said the mining group is assisting the family of the deceased miners as far as possible.

“I can confirm two employees were fatally injured in a rock fall incident at our No 12 shaft today. We are in the process of informing and supporting the next of kin and have initiated an investigation into the incident with the Department of Mineral Resources and labour representatives,” said Theron.

Mineral Resources Minister, Mosebenzi Zwane said the ministry will be conducting an investigation into the cause of the accident.